Oregon State Senate Minority Leader Fred Girod said Wednesday that peaceful protests in the city of Portland turned into riots.
“I support the federal use of troops and the reason is very simple: what started as a long-time peaceful demonstration has turned into a full-fledged riot,” Girod, a Republican, told “America’s Newsroom.”
Girod said anarchists have “hijacked” the movement and have caused “widespread damage and looting to property.”
“Federal and state buildings are targets, our law enforcement officers are terribly treated, and the safety of our citizens is at risk.”
CURRENT DHS SECRETARY HITS AGAIN IN PORTLAND MAYOR’S “COMPLETELY IRRESPONSIBLE” CLAIMS THAT THE FEDS ARE “SCALING” THE DISMISSAL
Portland has been hit by riots and protests for 52 days in the wake of George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis. This month, in response to ongoing violence against federal property and monuments, DHS rolled out federal law enforcement in the city.
Federal officials have reportedly been attacked, attacked and wounded by rioters, and DHS officials said weapons such as hammers, fireworks and fecal matter have been used against the police. Meanwhile, there have been multiple attempts to damage the Hatfield Courthouse.
But there have been cases and reports of federal officials arresting criminal activity suspects and putting them in unmarked cars. It has sparked outrage from Democrats and even some Republicans, who have accused law enforcement of being aggressive and illegal.
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Girod said that while the problem could have been solved by state and local public officials, the governor has “sided with the rioters.”
Hence the need for federal protection. Again, I am very very grateful for federal protection, ”Girod said.
“What happens with the anarchist is that if you know his movement, they don’t want laws, there are no more borders, and to be honest, they want a complete revolution and that is how it has become in Portland and that is what is particularly terrifying” . “
Fox News’ Adam Shaw contributed to this report.
